The DRDO CEPTAM Recruitment 2026 notice is likely to be published soon by the Centre for Personnel Talent Management to fill more than 50+ technical and administrative posts (which may go up to 700+ as per recent trends). Aspiring candidates seeking DRDO CEPTAM Recruitment 2026 for graduates or ITI passers must qualify a two-tier Computer-Based Test (CBT). The application period for CEPTAM 11 applied online recruitment 2026 will be available on the official website, drdo.gov.in.
DRDO CEPTAM 2026 Notification Overview
If you are an engineering graduate or ITI holder eyeing a stable, high-growth career in India’s defense sector, the DRDO CEPTAM Recruitment 2026 is likely your best bet outside of the GATE route. Unlike scientist roles that demand rigorous GATE scores, CEPTAM offers a direct entry for the technical support cadre, the backbone of defense infrastructure.
While the official DRDO CEPTAM 2026 notification is the final authority, we are seeing a trend of robust intakes. This recruitment drive primarily targets two profiles: Senior Technical Assistant-B (STA-B) and Technician-A (Tech-A).
Quick Recruitment Summary
| Recruitment Feature | Details |
| Organization | Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) |
| Exam Board | Centre for Personnel Talent Management (CEPTAM) |
| Post Names | STA-B, Technician-A, A&A |
| Expected Vacancy | 50+ (Recent cycles have seen 700+ seats) |
| Selection Method | Tier-1 (CBT) & Tier-2 (Trade/Skill Test) |
| Official Website | www.drdo.gov.in |
Looking for other technical roles? You might also want to check the DPCC Recruitment 2026 for similar opportunities.
DRDO CEPTAM Eligibility 2026
Before you begin planning your study schedule, you must be 100% sure that you meet the criteria. The DRDO CEPTAM Recruitment 2026 is very particular about its cutoff dates for age and qualifications.
For a detailed breakdown of exemptions and specific trade codes, check our guide on DRDO CEPTAM Eligibility.
Educational Qualification by Post
- Senior Technical Assistant-B (STA-B): This is the main DRDO employment for graduates. You require a B.Sc. in Science or a 3-year Diploma in Engineering (Automobile, Mechanical, Electronics, CS, etc.) from an approved institution.
- Technician-A (Tech-A): This is for the practical professionals. You must have passed Class 10 (Matriculation) and possess a valid ITI Trade Certificate in the appropriate trade (Fitter, Electrician, Welder, etc.).
- Admin & Allied (A&A): Posts such as Junior Translation Officer or Stenographer would require specific degrees or 12th pass certificates based on the skill set.
Age Limit and Relaxation
Generally, the age bracket for DRDO CEPTAM Recruitment 2026 is 18 to 28 years for unreserved candidates.
- SC/ST: +5 Years
- OBC-NCL: +3 Years
- PwBD: As per govt norms
DRDO CEPTAM Recruitment Process
The DRDO CEPTAM Recruitment Process isn’t just about memorizing books; it tests your practical aptitude. It filters candidates through a multi-stage system designed to pick only the most proficient technical minds.
Stage 1: Tier-I (Screening/Provisional Selection)
- For STA-B: This is purely a screening test. It filters out the crowd using General Intelligence, Reasoning, and Basic Science.
- For Tech-A: This score actually matters for your provisional selection. It tests your subject matter grasp alongside aptitude.
Stage 2: Tier-II (Selection/Trade Test)
- For STA-B: This is your “Main Exam.” The final selection depends entirely on how well you know your specific discipline (e.g., Physics, Chemical Engineering).
- For Tech-A: This is a Qualifying Trade Test. You will be asked to perform practical tasks.
Pro Tip: The intensity of these exams often mirrors the pressure of GATE. If you are preparing for that as well, read How to attempt GATE 2026 for strategies that apply here too.
Comprehensive Syllabus and Exam Pattern
Understanding the CEPTAM exam pattern and syllabus 2026 is half the battle. The exam demands speed—there is typically no negative marking (though always check the final notification), which pushes the cut-off scores sky-high.
STA-B Exam Pattern
- Tier-I: 120 Questions | 120 Marks | 90 Minutes
- Subjects: Quantitative Aptitude, Reasoning, General Awareness, English, General Science.
- Tier-II: 100 Questions | 100 Marks | 90 Minutes
- Subjects: Strictly confined to your technical discipline.
Tech-A Exam Pattern
- Section A: 40 Questions (Quant, Reasoning, English).
- Section B: 80 Questions (Specific Trade Discipline).
- Total: 120 Questions | 90 Minutes.
If you are exploring other government technical roles, the BSNL JTO Recruitment 2026 syllabus shares some common ground with CEPTAM’s technical sections.
DRDO Recruitment Salary and Perks
Let’s talk about the reward. The DRDO recruitment salary is highly attractive and follows the 7th Pay Commission (CPC) matrix.
- Senior Technical Assistant-B (STA-B):
- Pay Level: 6
- Basic Pay: ~₹35,400
- Gross Salary: ₹50,000 – ₹60,000 (depending on HRA).
- Technician-A:
- Pay Level: 2
- Basic Pay: ~₹19,900
- Gross Salary: ₹30,000 – ₹35,000.
Beyond the paycheck, you get Dearness Allowance, HRA, and medical facilities, making these some of the most secure DRDO jobs for graduates available.
How to Apply: CEPTAM 11 Online Application
Once the notification drops, the CEPTAM 11 application online 2026 link will go live. Here is how to apply without getting your form rejected:
- Registration: Go to the CEPTAM notice board on the official site. Register with a valid email and mobile number.
- Form Filling: Log in and carefully fill in your personal and educational history.
- Document Upload: Scan your photo, signature, and essential certificates (10th/Diploma/Degree). Keep file sizes between 15KB–40KB.
- Fee Payment: Pay the application fee (usually ₹100 for Gen/OBC/EWS). SC/ST/PwBD/Women are usually exempted.
- Print Application: Do not skip this. Save the confirmation page; you will need it for document verification during the DRDO CEPTAM Recruitment 2026 interviews.
Critical Insight: The “Qualifying” Trap in Tier-2
Here is a common pitfall for DRDO CEPTAM Recruitment 2026 aspirants: Overconfidence in theory.
For Technician-A posts, the Tier-2 Trade Test is where many “toppers” are eliminated.
- The Reality: The Trade Test is “Qualifying.” It adds zero marks to your final score.
- The Trap: Failing it disqualifies you immediately, no matter how high you scored in Tier-1.
Many candidates spend 90% of their energy on the written CEPTAM exam pattern and syllabus 2026 and ignore practical lab skills. In the real world, DRDO values your ability to do the work, not just write about it. To clear the DRDO CEPTAM Recruitment 2026, get back into the workshop and polish your hands-on skills.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the age limit and relaxation for these posts?
The standard age bracket is 18 to 28 years. Relaxation is provided as per government norms: 5 years for SC/ST, 3 years for OBC (NCL), and up to 10–15 years for PwBD candidates depending on their category.
Can B.E./B.Tech graduates apply for the STA-B position?
No. Candidates possessing higher qualifications such as B.E., B.Tech, M.Sc., or Ph.D. as of the crucial eligibility date are generally not eligible for the STA-B post, which is designed for Diploma and B.Sc. holders.
Is there any negative marking in the CEPTAM 11 CBT?
Historically, there is no negative marking in the DRDO CEPTAM exams. However, candidates must verify this in the final official notification, as high cut-offs usually result from this marking scheme.
What is the selection process for the Technician-A (Tech-A) post?
Selection involves a two-stage process: Tier-1 (CBT), which is used for provisional selection, and a Tier-2 Trade Test, which is practical and qualifying in nature.
What is the starting salary for an STA-B officer?
Under the 7th Pay Commission, STA-B is a Pay Level 6 post with a basic pay of ₹35,400. Including HRA and other allowances, the gross monthly salary ranges between ₹50,000 and ₹60,000.
What happens if I fail the Tier-2 Trade Test?
he Tier-2 Trade Test is mandatory and qualifying. Even if you secure the highest marks in the Tier-1 written exam, failing the practical Trade Test will lead to immediate disqualification.
How do I apply for the DRDO CEPTAM 2026 vacancies?
Applications must be submitted online via the official DRDO website (drdo.gov.in). You will need to register, upload scanned documents (10th/ITI/Diploma certificates), and pay a fee (usually ₹100 for General/OBC; exempted for SC/ST/Women).
